“Grant told the firm those were basic domestic tasks,” the woman said, papers shuffling as she spoke.

“He said she painted some trim and picked out window glass, but put in no real capital.”

Caroline took two quiet steps backward into the shadow of the stairwell arch.

The office door opened wider, and a young secretary in a gray wool skirt stepped into the hall carrying an armful of manila folders.

She stopped when she saw Caroline standing by the banister.

“Can I help you find a particular office, ma’am?” the secretary asked.